Goals for Israel Soccer Tournament

Ezra Safdieh making a move

The Goals for Israel Soccer Tournament took place recently in Elberon, New Jersey. The goal of the tournament was to provide a fun day, while helping out the sick and needy in Israel. The tournament set teams against each other in an all-day race to enter into the playoffs and eventually become the champions, receiving professional trophies.

Committee members Sam Anzaroot, Lauren Betesh, Steven Beyda, Doris Dweck, Ralph Mizrahi, Victor Mosseri, Debbie Nitka, Claire Rahmey and Charles Safdieh planned the day.

David and Jeffrey Beyda and their families sponsored the event and all proceeds went to the maintenance of the Joseph D. Beyda A”H School for Disabled Children in the Negev, part of the Aleh Organization. Other sponsors included Marty Stein, Moony Barnathan, Jay Franco and sons.

“Aleh’s message had a powerful and emotional influence on our lives. We were so happy to bring the community together for this very special cause,” said Charles Safdieh. “The entire group fell in love with the Aleh Organization. We heard about and researched their work and knew that they should be our charity for this year’s tournament.”

Tournament winners

“There should be more consideration for organizations such as Aleh that do tremendous work for the unfortunate and needy in Israel,” added Victor Mosseri.

The afternoon was a huge success. At one point there were 200 guys and girls enjoying a beautiful, fun-filled afternoon of soccer, charity and delicious food. Everyone had a great time.

The male winners of the event included: Steven Beyda, David Tobel, Michael Zalta, Ezra Safdieh, Joseph Franco, Jesse Schemo, Billy Goldman, Elliot “Spock” Levy, Jeffrey Dweck, Abraham “Platt” Manopla and Samuel Tawil. The MVP was Yaron Levari, and Joseph Franco was awarded for sportsmanship.

Jonathan Brody, Jeffrey J. Beyda with son Daniel, David J. Beyda and Charles Safdieh

The girls’ winners included MVP Aline Elman and Victoria Chabot who also won an award for sportsmanship.

Special thanks to all the referees, Elliot Chrem on the grill, who did an excellent job, Caren Rishty for the colorful and bright shirts and cool designs, Victor Gindi for photos, and a very special thanks to Yossi Cahana, our Aleh-Negev representative and Jonathan Brody, our Jewish National Fund rep.